MOMS & DADS TALK: Does Food Dye Cause Hyperactivity in Children?
Share your thoughts and comment on the story.
It’s been all over the local and national news this week: Does food dye cause hyperactivity in children? For years, I've heard people say that food dye is bad for you, but I thought it was just red dye.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is now calling into question several artificial colors: Blue 1 and 2, Green 3, Orange B, Yellow 5 and 6 and Red 40 and 3. You'd be surprised how many foods contain these dyes.
Here are just a few things I found in my kitchen: Kraft Macaroni & Cheese, Twizzlers, M&Ms, Skittles, Gogurt, Fruit Rollups, pickles and popsicles. OK, so I’m not the epitome of health with some of these selections, but don’t judge. Basically, if it’s colorful, it’s probably artificial.
A few years ago, I wouldn’t have batted an eye at this study. I liked my M&Ms red and my Peeps blue. But hearing that it could trigger hyperactivity in my kids definitely has me raising an eyebrow.
Personally, I don’t think I've noticed a behavioral change in my children as a result of these dyes. But then again, I’ve never removed the dye from their diet to see any difference. After seeing the news reports, it's clear that some parents are claiming extreme results, within weeks of altering their child’s diet.
Genetics may play a role as well. But with so many children being diagnosed with ADHD, you can’t help but think: What if something so insignificant as removing dyes from food could reduce its incidence? In that context, I absolutely think it deserves a closer look.
According to Brian Williams’ report on the NBC Nightly News on Tuesday, the FDA originally maintained its position that there was no link between artificial coloring and hyperactivity. But it is now undergoing an investigation.
The FDA released a statement, displayed in Williams' report, about their change in position, stating “the data suggests that [a child’s] condition may be exacerbated by exposure to a number of substances in food, including, but not limited to artificial colors.”
The FDA panel will also determine whether the colors should be banned or if products will require a warning label.
Do you feel there is a link between ADHD and food dye? Do you have a personal story? Should there be a ban on these substances or should the FDA just require a warning label?
Stacey Schantz
2:49 pm on Thursday, March 31, 2011
A friend of mine commented on the article on my FB page -
Donyetta wrote: "I have been hearing so much about this recently and its a little scary because mostly all foods have this food dye in them. Sadly, these foods look fun and have a taste that kids will remember when they see it again. I personally try really hard to not expose my girls to foods that I know aren't good for them. Their daycare has a food program that is "supported" by the govt, and they really stand behind eating healthy but how healthy is "boxed" mac & cheese, "canned" veggies, etc. I knew when the girls started any daycare I would be supplying most of their food! This is really an issue that we to dig deeper into. Just my opinion:)"
Lauren LaRocca
4:23 pm on Thursday, March 31, 2011
DYE IS EVIL! I think there is a connection between chemicals we ingest and countless health problems — especially "modern" health problems/epidemics. Children are unfortunately more sensitive than adults. DON'T EAT CHEMICALS!!
Annette Adams
12:00 pm on Saturday, April 2, 2011
For most children, you will not see any difference in behavior. For those children who do have a reaction, you don't have to ask twice. My grandson becomes very violent and destructive after having anything with Red 40. This is a very common reaction for kids who are sensitive to dyes. Until we figured out what was causing the violent reaction, we went through therapists, doctors, and started modifying his diet. After removing Red 40, the violence stopped. The only time he has any problem now is when some well-meaning mother or teacher gives him something he should not have. Red 40 should be banned, just like it has been in European countries for years and for the same reason. You can get the same candies by the same makers but without the dyes if you travel to Europe.
Stacey Schantz
8:33 pm on Saturday, April 2, 2011
Thank you very much for your comments. Annette, I had no idea the same candy in Europe is without dye. That's so interesting! I'm very interested in what will happen over the coming weeks/months with this panel.
Kim Remesch
8:17 pm on Thursday, April 7, 2011
More than 20 years ago, my daughter's best friend (major ADHD) came to my home. Her parents hadn't given me the rundown on what she could have. She ate Skittles at my house. I found Red Dye #3 made her wild. she melted down emotionally before my eyes, and went bouncing all over the place. I've never forgotten that, as it was so cause and effect. I had a mini farm back then, food for my home use and family. My apples were not shiny red, etc, and when I'd bring them to people, they'd wonder why they didn't look so pretty. (Didn't really use pesticides either.) I had to explain how cucumbers were oiled in stores and apples and oranges hit wth additives to look so pretty. That is better now, but candy (crack for kids) is the very thing that contains the additives that seem to set kids off. BThen again...I used to eat wax lips when was a kid---so what do I know.